Belgium Crackdown on Illegal Online Vaping Sales

Belgium’s ban on the online sale of tobacco products, including electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), has not deterred some sellers from continuing to offer these products through social media platforms and e-commerce marketplaces. In response, the Federal Public Service (FPS) Public Health is implementing strict enforcement measures to combat this illegal activity. The number of cases processed by the FPS Public Health regarding illegal online sales of vapor products has skyrocketed from 824 in 2023 to 6,286 in 2024. The increase in resources and expanded enforcement teams has enabled more targeted inspections and rapid interventions.

The FPS Public Health’s inspection service closely monitors social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat. Inspectors and controllers conduct daily searches for suspicious advertisements or posts, follow up on complaints, and gather information on vendors through mystery shopping operations. In 2023, the FPS Public Health identified 70 private sellers on Facebook directly offering vaping devices through posts, resulting in the seizure of 5,500 vaping products. In 2024, 98 vendor profiles have been inspected, and 3,800 vaping devices have been confiscated. When home inspections reveal packages ready for shipment, the FPS Public Health also issues warnings to buyers, as purchasing these products online is equally prohibited.

The FPS Public Health has observed that platforms like Facebook are removing explicit advertisements more quickly, but emphasizes the need for continued vigilance. Vendors attempt to circumvent regulations by hiding in closed groups or using vague product descriptions, prompting controllers and inspectors to utilize fictional profiles to identify these concealed forms of sales.

Targeting Online Platforms and Foreign Websites

The FPS Public Health also conducts active inspections on Amazon and auction sites. In 2024, more than 6,000 links to illegal products have been removed from Amazon. Despite the strict prohibition on the sale of vapor products on auction sites, inspectors and controllers have observed e-cigarettes being offered there, sometimes below market price. This has led to 13 official reports and the seizure of 150 vaping devices.

Many foreign e-commerce sites still attempt to reach Belgian consumers, prompting the FPS Public Health to send 34 warnings to such websites in 2024. Other platforms like 2ememain.be, Temu, Alibaba, and AliExpress are also under close surveillance.

Penalties and Objectives

When the FPS Public Health detects illegal online advertising of vaping products, a warning is first issued. In cases of recidivism, fines ranging from €2,000 to €800,000 are imposed. For online sales of electronic nicotine delivery systems, an official report is immediately established, accompanied by a proposed administrative fine starting at €1,500. The FPS Public Health collaborates with foreign inspection services and the public prosecutor’s office to render illegal websites inaccessible to Belgian users, aiming to protect youth and contribute to a healthier society.

News source: La vente illégale de vapes en ligne en Belgique est sévèrement réprimée

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Matthew Ma

Marketing at Ecigator

With over a decade of experience in the e-cigarette industry, Matthew Ma is a seasoned expert in both the manufacturing and usage aspects of vaping products. His extensive background has provided him with a deep understanding of the intricacies and evolving dynamics of e-cigarettes.